Pace University

Detailed Course Information

Spring 2009
Dec 09, 2016

Select the desired Level or Schedule Type to find available classes for the course.

LAW 761B - Clinic: Post-Conv. Project Seminar

The Criminal Justice Clinic (CJC) Post-Conviction Project (PCP) provides an opportunity for second, third, and fourth year students to represent clients in post-conviction matters, under supervision. The CJC receives many letters every year from prisoners declaring their innocence and requesting assistance in filing motions to win release. In addition, outside groups (such as the Cardozo Innocence Project, the Centurion Ministries and various Public Defender Offices) refer cases to the CJC.
Post-Conviction Project student attorneys review inmate letters and referrals. They decide which cases need further factual and legal development and undertake that development. Students engage in fact investigation ¿ by tracking down paperwork, finding prior counsel, conducting prison interviews of our clients, and by locating and interviewing witnesses. Legal and factual investigation is geared towards filing §440 motions based on newly discovered evidence.
In July 2002, the PCP (co-counseling with the Innocence Project at Cardozo Law School) sucessfully persuaded the office of the Nassau County District Attorney to join in our motion to vacate the 17 year-old convictions for rape and homicide of John Kogut, John Restivo and Dennis Halstead. The three men were released on bail and the prosecutor is still considering whether to re-try their case.
PCP students will work in teams to handle a caseload of post-conviction cases and meet in seminar once a week.
Permission of the professor, based upon application and interview, is required. Criminal Procedure Investigation is required but sometimes may be taken simultaneously or waived. If you are interested in applying, you may contact Prof. Bernhard by e-mail: abernhard@law.pace.edu, or by calling: 422-4230.
2.000 Credit hours
2.000 Lecture hours